In order to optimize the immune response and reduce side effects of treatment, the body needs to be free of heavy metals and toxins. In the post-industrial age, we are exposed to toxins from a variety of sources, including: by-products of chlorination in drinking water and bath water, air pollution, pesticides and herbicides from food, plasticizers and coatings in our bottles and packaging, mercury from dental amalgams and in seafood. Damage to the immune system through such toxins is often associated with the outbreak of chronic disease and cancer. The body has many sophisticated mechanisms to break down and eliminate toxic substances. Every drug, chemical, pesticide and hormone, is broken down or metabolized by pathways inside the liver. Other organs, such as our lymphatic system, kidneys, intestines and skin are involved in excreting these substances.
Many of the toxic chemicals that enter the body are fat-soluble. This means that they only dissolve in fatty or oily solutions and not in water. This can make it difficult for the body to excrete them. Fat-soluble toxins move to the fat tissues and cell membranes, which are made of fatty substances. These parts of the body may store toxins for years. During times of exercise, stress or fasting the toxins may be released into the system, triggering symptoms such as headaches, poor memory, stomach pain, nausea, fatigue and dizziness.
A detox regimen must be designed to help mobilize toxins, while supporting the body’s ability to eliminate them. Much care must be taken to open the detox pathways and ensure good bladder and bowel movement. Brushing and washing the skin is also very important.